Welcoming Your Baby
Congratulations, your baby is on the way! Becoming a parent is one of life’s most exciting and challenging experiences. There will be many emotional, physical and family changes. But knowing what to expect can make these changes enjoyable and easier to handle. Visiting your health professional regularly and using health information and support will help keep you and your baby healthy.
Your Feelings
There are a lot of feelings attached to finding out you are pregnant. You may begin having emotional ups and downs - excitement, anxiety, or uncertainty. You may begin thinking about how the needs of your newborn may affect your finances, housing, career and relationships. As a mother you may begin to feel closer to other mothers such as your own mother, sister or friends. As a father you usually feel proud, but at times may feel left out of the experience or wonder how to best provide support to your partner.
What To Do
- See your health professional regularly (doctor, midwife, public health nurse).
- Strengthen the relationships with your partner, family and friends so that your new family is surrounded by care and support. It takes a village to raise a child.
- Develop a healthy lifestyle – eat well and together as a family, stay physically active and get plenty of sleep.
- Arrange to attend prenatal classes.
- Avoid tobacco, alcohol and drugs during pregnancy and while breastfeeding.
Read more about beginning the journey to parenthood in the New and Expecting Parents section of the RichmondKids website. Find out about programs and services in Richmond, British Columbia and who to contact for information or help.
